How to Pick the Best Red Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

Red lipstick is like the little black dress of the makeup world. It’s versatile, essential, and best of all, can be worn by anyone to add an element of sophistication to any look, day or night. That said, when looking at the mounds of red lipsticks available on the market, it can be a pretty intimidating sight. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a red lipstick for your skin tone, but being equipped with some basic guidelines can help you narrow down your choices.

We called on celebrity makeup artist Latisha Nicole Rankin to learn how to find the best red lipstick for all skin tones. With a little perseverance (and a lot of swatching), we’re confident you’ll find your go-to red below.

Meet the Expert

Latisha Nicole Rankin is a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with Jordin Sparks, Tracey Edmonds, Angela Simmons, and Paula Abdul.

Keep scrolling for some expert tips on finding the best red lipstick shade for your skin tone.

How to Find the Right Shade of Red

A good red lipstick can make a bold statement. But with so many variations in skin tones and undertones, some trial and error is needed to find the right shade. Keep these tips in mind when shopping for your perfect red.

• Experiment, swatch, and try on various shades of red to see what you feel best in.
• Found a red that’s too bright or dark for your liking? Hold off on tossing it, as it can bring some depth to a too-light red. Or, you can also make a deep red lighter by layering a gold lipgloss on top.
• Know that a lipstick’s texture (cream, matte, or gloss) could have an effect on the way the shade looks on your lips.
• If you aren’t ready to commit to bold red lipstick, ease into the shade with a sheer formula, or try a lip stain to gradually incorporate the color into your look.

The Best Red Shades For Deep Skin

In the world of reds, there are a few that are universally flattering. Rankin’s favorite? MAC’s Retro Matte Lipstick ($19) in Ruby Woo. “It truly looks great on every complexion, as the blue undertones in this lipstick are just right,” she says. “Oftentimes, other cosmetic companies add too much yellow or orange into their red lipsticks causing the lipstick to appear very bright on some skin tones. Ruby Woo is a perfect, universal red that anyone can proudly wear regardless of skin tone.”

For a wallet-friendly option, try Maybelline’s Color Sensational Made for All Lipstick collection ($5 each)—this shade selection is made to flatter skin tones on all ends of the spectrum.

How to Exfoliate Lips the Right Way